>I produce vfp 6.0 desktop LAN applications for our company. This year the company has allocated $1,500 for my training. I can choose anything I want- complete freedom so to speak. Now, I need your advice on what training I should spend this money. Is it java? Sql server?...

Ahmed, there's no right answer. It depends on what you feel most comfortable with learning. We are at a time when the software development/operating system environments are in a state of great flux and no one knows for sure who will dominate or even participate in the market.

The first thing you need to think about is which OS you will be using. Yes, VFP runs on the Windows operating system as does the ever popular VB and VC++ (as well as SQL Server, ASP etc.). If you plan on staying with your current employer and they plan on staying with Windows then I would steer you towards .NET and SQL Server. If you or your employer are interested in what Sun technologies has to offer and you plan on porting to UNIX, learn Java and Oracle. If you think open source is the way of the future and your employer agrees, learn LINUX and an open source dev environment (like Delphi or Kylix). If you think the Mac will once again become a major player then learn....you catch my drift.

To sum up my advice, choose your operating system.

Windows: .NET/SQL Server
UNIX: Java/Oracle/IBM
LINUX: Postgre SQL/DB2/Delphi/PHP/Kylix
Mac: OSX

I think it's no suprise that Windows is not going to dominate in the future as they have in the past (and present) so consider the alternatives. Also, if you're as confused as I am, consider cross-platform technologies like XML. I would plan on learning XML regardless of which OS's become the standard. I picture a world where Windows/UNIX/Linux and Mac all have equal market share and coexist side by side with development tools and databases which span the operating systems.

Just my thoughts. Good luck, whatever you do.

-JT